Wisconsin Hunter's Safety Practice Exam

Which kind of ammunition is generally illegal to use when hunting big game in Wisconsin?

1. Shotgun shells

2. Hollow point bullets

3. Full metal jacket bullets

4. Soft point bullets

The correct answer is: Full metal jacket bullets

Full metal jacket bullets are generally illegal to use when hunting big game in Wisconsin due to their design, which is primarily intended for military and target shooting rather than hunting. These bullets are constructed with a soft core, usually of lead, encased in a harder metal shell, which facilitates higher velocity and better accuracy over long distances. However, this design does not expand upon impact, resulting in less effective terminal ballistics for hunting purposes. In contrast, the other types of ammunition—shotgun shells, hollow point bullets, and soft point bullets—are designed specifically for hunting since they expand or fragment upon impact. This expansion increases their effectiveness in bringing down game by creating a larger wound channel, leading to quicker and more humane kills. Therefore, hunters are encouraged to use ammunition that is designed to maximize the ethical and efficient harvest of big game, which is why full metal jacket bullets are prohibited.